Let’s Dive into Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-4192-91
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-4192-91 is a duty-grade holster designed for law enforcement and security professionals who require a high level of weapon retention and a smooth, efficient draw. Manufactured by Safariland, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in the holster industry, this model boasts the Automatic Locking System (ALS) and Level III Retention, providing exceptional security without sacrificing speed. The hi-gloss black finish offers a professional appearance, and the drop UBL (Universal Belt Loop) provides a comfortable carry position.
For years, I’ve searched for a holster that balances rock-solid retention with a fast, intuitive draw. My previous holsters either felt flimsy and insecure or required overly complicated release mechanisms that slowed me down in drills. I needed a holster that could withstand the rigors of daily carry, provide Level III security for open carry scenarios, and allow me to present my weapon quickly and efficiently.
The Safariland holster arrived in a sturdy cardboard box, well-protected by foam inserts. My initial impression was one of quality and durability; the hi-gloss black finish was flawless, and the molded polymer felt incredibly strong. The weight was noticeable, but not excessive, suggesting a robust construction capable of withstanding heavy use.
I considered the Blackhawk! Serpa Level 3 and the Bianchi Accumold Elite 7900, both popular choices in the law enforcement community. However, the Safariland’s ALS system stood out for its intuitive operation and proven track record. The Blackhawk! Serpa, while offering similar retention levels, has faced scrutiny regarding its draw technique, and the Bianchi, though durable, lacks the speed of the ALS.
I was immediately impressed. The holster felt substantial and well-made, and the ALS system clicked into place with a satisfying sound, giving me confidence in its retention capabilities. The hi-gloss finish, while not my usual preference, looked professional and easy to clean.
Real-World Testing: Putting Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-4192-91 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-4192-91 was at the shooting range, where I ran a series of drills simulating various scenarios. I specifically focused on draw speed, re-holstering, and retention under stress. The holster was tested while moving, kneeling, and even in simulated close-quarters combat situations.
The Safariland holster performed admirably in all conditions. The ALS system released smoothly and consistently, even with wet hands and while wearing gloves. The drop UBL allowed for a comfortable and natural draw stroke, and the holster’s snug fit prevented any unwanted movement of the weapon.
The draw was initially slightly different than what I was used to, requiring a deliberate thumb activation of the ALS. However, after only a few practice repetitions, the motion became fluid and intuitive. I experienced no issues or surprises; the holster performed exactly as advertised.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-4192-91 has proven to be exceptionally reliable. It has been subjected to daily wear, exposure to various weather conditions, and rigorous training exercises. The holster still feels as secure and functions as smoothly as the day I unboxed it.
The Safariland holster has held up incredibly well. There are no signs of cracking or deformation, and the ALS system continues to function flawlessly. The hi-gloss finish shows some minor scratches, but this is to be expected with regular use and doesn’t detract from the overall appearance or functionality.
Maintenance is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth keeps the holster clean and functioning properly. The ALS mechanism benefits from occasional lubrication with a dry lubricant, ensuring smooth operation. This holster far outperforms any previous duty holsters I’ve used in terms of retention, speed, and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-4192-91
Specifications
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-4192-91 is designed to fit the Smith & Wesson M&P .45 without manual safeties, specifically with ITI M3, M6, TLR-1, TLR-2, Surefire X200, X300, LAS-TAC 2, or Insight XTI Procyon lights attached. It offers Level III Retention with the ALS (Automatic Locking System), and Level IV retention is achievable with an optional Sentry installed. The holster is made from a durable, molded polymer with a hi-gloss black finish, and it’s designed for right-hand draw.
The Level III Retention is critical for open carry or environments where weapon security is paramount. The ALS Automatic Locking System ensures that the weapon is securely locked in place until intentionally released, minimizing the risk of unauthorized removal. The hi-gloss black finish provides a professional and easily cleanable surface.
Performance & Functionality
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-4192-91 performs its job exceptionally well, providing a secure and reliable platform for carrying a duty weapon. The ALS system allows for a fast and intuitive draw, while the Level III Retention ensures that the weapon remains secure. The holster is comfortable to wear for extended periods, thanks to the drop UBL.
The holster’s main strengths are its exceptional retention, smooth draw, and robust construction. The only minor weakness is that the initial learning curve for the ALS system may require some practice. It significantly exceeds my expectations for a duty holster, offering a superior balance of security, speed, and comfort.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-4192-91 is outstanding. The materials used are top-notch, and the molded polymer feels incredibly strong. The holster is comfortable to wear for extended periods, and the drop UBL positions the weapon for a natural and efficient draw.
The Safariland holster is reasonably user-friendly, although there is a slight learning curve associated with the ALS system. However, once mastered, the draw becomes fast and intuitive. The holster fits snugly against the body, minimizing printing and maximizing comfort.
Durability & Maintenance
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-4192-91 is built to last, capable of withstanding years of heavy use. The durable polymer construction resists cracking and deformation, and the ALS system is designed for reliable operation. With proper care, this holster should provide years of dependable service.
The Safariland holster is easy to maintain and requires minimal upkeep. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and debris. Occasional lubrication of the ALS mechanism with a dry lubricant will ensure smooth operation. Repair is usually not necessary due to the robust construction, but replacement parts are available from Safariland if needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-4192-91 comes standard with a hood guard to enhance security. An optional Sentry can be installed to upgrade the holster to Level IV Retention.
The Safariland holster is compatible with a wide range of Safariland accessories, including different belt loops, leg straps, and mounting platforms. It also works with many popular weapon lights, as specified in the product description. The ability to customize the holster with different accessories enhances its versatility and adaptability.
Pros and Cons of Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-4192-91
Pros
- Exceptional Level III Retention: The ALS system provides outstanding weapon security, minimizing the risk of unauthorized removal.
- Smooth and Fast Draw: Once mastered, the ALS allows for a quick and efficient draw stroke.
- Durable Construction: The molded polymer construction is incredibly strong and resistant to wear and tear.
- Comfortable Carry: The drop UBL positions the weapon for comfortable all-day carry.
- Professional Appearance: The hi-gloss black finish provides a sleek and professional look.
Cons
- The hi-gloss finish can be prone to scratching, although this doesn’t affect functionality.
- The ALS system requires a slight learning curve.
Who Should Buy Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-4192-91?
This holster is perfect for law enforcement officers, security personnel, and anyone who requires a high level of weapon retention and a smooth, efficient draw. It is also well-suited for individuals who carry openly and need a secure and reliable holster. The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-4192-91 is a great choice for anyone prioritizing security and reliability.
Individuals who prefer a simpler holster design without active retention systems might prefer a different option. Also, left-handed shooters will need to select the appropriate left-handed version of this holster. A good weapon light is practically a must-have accessory to fully utilize this holster’s design.
Conclusion on Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-4192-91
The Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-4192-91 is an exceptional duty holster that offers a superior blend of security, speed, and comfort. The price is justified by its quality construction, reliable performance, and Level III Retention. I would definitely recommend it to anyone who needs a top-tier duty holster.
If you’re looking for a holster that will provide years of dependable service and peace of mind, look no further than the Safariland 6365 ALS Level III w/ Drop UBL Holster – Hi Gloss Black, Right Hand 6365-4192-91. Invest in your safety and performance today!